We are invincible, or so we think. Knowing when it is time to let go of certain components in your life can be very difficult if not impossible. Being able to accept new limitations that are in direct conflict with your desires can cause intense stress both for you and your family.

Many of us want to grow old gracefully but on our own terms. We want to continue to live our daily lives at home taking care of ourselves and loved ones. Knowing that we are slowing down is difficult to accept—the use of a cane or walker, having your driver’s license taken away, being unable to walk through the grocery store, and any other number of activities that you once took for granted are gone.

While accepting these gradual changes in your life is difficult, you can make the best of your limitations by first accepting them and finding ways to adapt. Remember that there is more than ‘one way to skin a cat’.

Start thinking differently, talk to other friends to get some ideas from them, and keep your sense of humor. Learn to use the computer and order your groceries and just about everything else online and have it delivered at a date and time that is convenient for you.

If you need to start using a cane or walker tell people that you would never go bungee jumping again because it puts a terrible stress on your body. If you can no longer drive tell people that you are giving other drivers a break by reducing traffic.

You are just one of many people who are now a senior citizen and your ranks are growing in leaps and bounds as the baby boomers are reaching retirement age. It does not help if you get mad because you can not do something that once was simple. You will just continue to frustrate yourself by constantly fretting over ‘what was’. Get a grip and adapt!

Are you thinking that you are a burden to your family now and that you do not want to impose? You might want to think this way, but remember that you do not have to depend totally on your family. There are numerous public and private services that are available to help seniors in most communities. All you have to do is to find out what is available and to ask for help.

Now is a great time to learn about the many different services that are available. This is especially true if you do not need any help yet. Knowing who to call when the time comes is essential to ensure that you get the right help at the right time.

So what if you can not walk fast, drive a car, clean your home or cook your meals. There are many services available throughout the community that can and will help. Take the time to learn about them and accept your limitations, your life will be easier once you do.

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Ms. Ellison recently retired from the Government Accountability Office after 37 years of service. A graduate of George Mason University, she devoted the majority of her career to working with senior level auditors from around the world who came to participate in GAO 's International Auditor Training Program. In retirement she is enjoying traveling, writing and spending time with her family.